Between Articulated Wheeled Vehicle Sections Patents (Class 180/418)
  • Patent number: 11400972
    Abstract: A work vehicle includes a hydraulic actuator that changes an actual steering angle, an actual steering angle detecting part, an operating unit that performs a steering operation, a position adjusting control part that controls the position adjusting part based on the actual steering angle, and a steering control part that controls the hydraulic actuator. The operating unit includes a support part, a rotating part supported rotatably by the support part, an operating part supported rotatably by the support part or the rotating part, a biasing part that biases the operating part to a predetermined position with respect to the rotating part, a position adjusting part that adjusts a rotation angle of the rotating part with respect to the support part, and a rotation angle detecting part configured to detect the rotation angle of the operating part with respect to the support part or the rotating part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2022
    Assignee: KOMATSU LTD.
    Inventor: Yuichi Teranishi
  • Patent number: 11167791
    Abstract: An articulated work vehicle in which front and rear frames are linked includes a joystick lever configured to be operated by an operator, a hydraulic actuator driven by hydraulic pressure, a control valve, a force imparting component, and a controller. The joystick lever is usable to set a target steering angle. The hydraulic actuator performs an articulation to change an actual steering angle of the front frame with respect to the rear frame in response to operation of the joystick lever. The control valve controls flow of fluid supplied to the hydraulic actuator so as to make the actual steering angle coincide with the target steering angle. The force imparting component applies an assisting force or a counterforce to operation of the joystick lever. The controller controls the force imparting component so as to generate resistance to operation of the joystick lever based on a start timing of an articulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2021
    Assignee: KOMATSU LTD.
    Inventors: Yuita Takenaka, Masanobu Nakabayashi, Masanori Ikari
  • Patent number: 10850767
    Abstract: A work vehicle includes a hydraulic actuator, a hydraulic pump, an operation member, a control valve, an angular velocity corresponding value sensing unit, a notification component, and a controller. The actuator changes a steering angle based on a supplied fluid. The pump supplies fluid to the actuator. The operation member is operated by an operator when the steering angle is changed. The valve controls flow of fluid supplied from the pump to the actuator based on an amount the operation member is operated. The sensing unit senses a corresponding value corresponding to a steering angular velocity changed based on the flow of fluid. The notification component notifies that the corresponding value has reached a threshold value preset based on an upper limit of the steering angular velocity. The controller causes the notification component to perform a notification when it is detected that the corresponding value has reached the threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2020
    Assignee: KOMATSU LTD.
    Inventors: Yuita Takenaka, Masanori Ikari, Masanobu Nakabayashi
  • Patent number: 10815645
    Abstract: A protection system for a wire harness in a motor grader includes a controller and a sensor. The controller has a processor executing stored commands and a datastore with memory architecture containing stored angular orientation values for the circle frame. The sensor is coupled to one or more of the circle frame, the draft frame, and a circle actuator that rotates the circle frame relative to the draft frame. The sensor is configured to detect an angular orientation of the circle frame relative to the draft frame. The controller is configured to: receive input signals from the sensor indicating the angular orientation of the circle frame relative to the draft frame; query the datastore for a maximum angular orientation value of the circle frame; and terminate actuation of the circle actuator when the circle frame is at the maximum angular orientation value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventors: Michael D. Peat, Lance R. Sherlock, David A. Veasy, Angel N. Villalobos, Craig Christofferson
  • Patent number: 10570586
    Abstract: A work vehicle includes a first frame, a second frame pivotally coupled to the first frame at an articulation joint, and a control circuit operable to control relative movement of the first and second frames about the articulation joint. The control circuit includes a pump, an actuator in fluid communication with the pump, and a first valve assembly coupled to a user-manipulable control. The first valve assembly is configured to direct fluid from the pump to the actuator in response to movement of the user-manipulable control to pivot the first and second frames. The control circuit also includes a second valve assembly configured to direct fluid from the pump to the actuator in response to receiving an electronic control signal to pivot the first and second frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2020
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventor: Adam Zell
  • Patent number: 10562564
    Abstract: A work vehicle is articulated with a front frame and a rear frame linked to the front frame. The work vehicle includes a hydraulic actuator, a control valve, an operation member and a force imparting component. The hydraulic actuator is configured to be hydraulically driven to change a steering angle of the front frame with respect to the rear frame. The control valve is configured to control flow of fluid supplied to the hydraulic actuator. The operation member is linked to the control valve and configured to be operated by an operator. The force imparting component is configured to impart an assist force or a counterforce to an operation of the operation member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2020
    Assignee: KOMATSU LTD.
    Inventors: Masanori Ikari, Masanobu Nakabayashi, Yuita Takenaka, Masahiko Hamaguchi, Jun Itou, Kenichi Muramoto
  • Patent number: 10384713
    Abstract: An articulated work vehicle with linked front and rear frames includes a joystick lever, a force imparting component, and a controller. The joystick lever can be moved to an inside or an outside with respect to an operator's seat by being operated by an operator, to change a steering angle of the front frame with respect to the rear frame. The force imparting component is configured to impart an assist force or a counterforce to an operation of the joystick lever by the operator. The controller controls the force imparting component so that an operating force required to move the joystick lever to the outside is different from an operating force required to move the joystick lever to the inside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2019
    Assignee: KOMATSU LTD.
    Inventors: Yuita Takenaka, Masanobu Nakabayashi, Masanori Ikari
  • Patent number: 10266200
    Abstract: An articulated work vehicle with linked front and rear frames includes a hydraulic actuator, a joystick lever operated by an operator, a control valve, a force imparting component, and a controller. The hydraulic actuator is driven hydraulically to change a steering angle of the front frame with respect to the rear frame. The control valve is linked to the joystick lever, to control flow of fluid supplied to the hydraulic actuator according to an operation amount of the joystick lever, and to restrict the operation amount of the joystick lever to a predetermined range. The force imparting component imparts an assist force or a counterforce to the operation of the joystick lever by the operator. The controller controls the force imparting component so as to decrease the assist force or increase the counterforce before the operation of the joystick lever is restricted by the control valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2019
    Assignee: KOMATSU LTD.
    Inventors: Yuita Takenaka, Masanobu Nakabayashi, Masanori Ikari
  • Patent number: 9878740
    Abstract: An active steering system for an articulated bus is provided. In an assisted steering mode, a hydraulic turntable assists in the steering action of the articulated bus. While the articulated bus is linearly driven at a high speed or the lane-changing action is performed, the assisted steering mode can provide stable driving performance. In the assisted steering mode, a better steering trajectory is achieved while a cornering action of the articulated bus is performed. By collecting the information about the driving velocity, the position of the transmission gear and the position of the steering wheel, a steering force applied to the front frame and the trailer frame is calculated. Moreover, if the control unit judges that the angle of the hydraulic turntable is optimal, a locking force is generated to assure the optimal angle of the articulated bus. The assisted steering mode also supports the action of reversing the articulated bus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2018
    Assignee: ALEEES ECO ARK (CAYMAN) CO. LTD.
    Inventors: Anthony Antao Yang, Gordon Ching Chen
  • Patent number: 9623717
    Abstract: A work vehicle with the cylinder cushioning arrangement includes two frame members coupled together with two hydraulic cylinders that are cross-coupled to each other. Each of the two hydraulic cylinders includes a flow-restricted port (at either its rod end or the cylinder end) that throttles hydraulic fluid flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: William P. Curnyn, Henry C. Olsen, Michael D. Somers, Francois F. Stander
  • Patent number: 9309647
    Abstract: A steering device for a wheel loader includes a handle for steering, a lever for steering, a steering cylinder, a steering valve that controls a direction of operating fluid to the steering cylinder, and a pump that supplies operating fluid to the steering cylinder via the steering valve. The steering device further includes a handle control valve that controls the supply direction of the operating fluid according the handle, a lever electromagnetic control valve that controls the supply direction of operating fluid according to the lever, and a handle prioritization valve that shuts off a pilot hydraulic pressure supplied from the lever electromagnetic control valve to the steering valve according to a pressure produced by operating fluid flowing through the handle control valve when the handle is operated. Communication between the lever electromagnetic control valve and the steering valve is allowed when only the lever electromagnetic control valve is operated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2016
    Assignee: KOMATSU LTD.
    Inventors: Kota Imanishi, Hiroyuki Chikugo, Shuuji Hori, Mitsumasa Akashi, Akira Hasebe, Shuki Akushichi, Nobumasa Takamatsu
  • Patent number: 9309648
    Abstract: A steering device for a wheel loader includes a handle for steering, a lever for steering, a steering cylinder, a steering valve that controls a direction of operating fluid to the steering cylinder, a pump that supplies operating fluid to the steering cylinder via the steering valve, and a return oil passage connected to a tank. The steering device further includes a handle control valve that controls the supply direction of the operating fluid according the handle, a lever electromagnetic control valve that controls the supply direction of operating fluid according to the lever, and a handle prioritization valve that shuts off a pilot hydraulic pressure supplied from the lever electromagnetic control valve to the steering valve according to a pressure produced by operating fluid flowing through the handle control valve when the handle is operated. The handle prioritization valve includes a throttle arranged in the return oil passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2016
    Assignee: KOMATSU LTD.
    Inventors: Kota Imanishi, Hiroyuki Chikugo, Shuuji Hori, Mitsumasa Akashi, Akira Hasebe, Shuki Akushichi, Nobumasa Takamatsu
  • Patent number: 9308936
    Abstract: A method is provided for controlling a working machine that includes a front section having a frame and a pair of wheels arranged on a geometrical front wheel axis, and a rear section having a frame and a pair of wheels arranged on a first geometrical rear wheel axis and a pair of wheels arranged on a second geometrical rear wheel axis arranged behind the first rear wheel axis. The front section and the rear section are pivotally connected to each other for pivoting about a substantially vertical pivot axis. In a first control mode the wheels of the second geometrical rear wheel axis are steered to substantially follow the same tracks as the wheels of the geometrical front wheel axis when driving the working machine during cornering, and in a second control mode steering the wheels of the second geometrical rear wheel axis follow tracks which are different from the tracks of the wheels of the geometrical front wheel axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2016
    Assignee: Volvo Construction Equipment AB
    Inventors: Reno Filla, Joakim Unneback, Bobbie Frank, Andreas Nordstrand
  • Patent number: 9309646
    Abstract: A steering device for a wheel loader includes a handle for steering, a lever for steering, a steering cylinder, a steering valve that controls a direction of operating fluid to the steering cylinder, and a pump that supplies operating fluid to the steering cylinder via the steering valve. The steering device further includes a handle control valve that controls the supply direction of the operating fluid according the handle, a lever electromagnetic control valve that controls the supply direction of operating fluid according to the lever, and a handle prioritization valve that shuts off a pilot hydraulic pressure supplied from the lever electromagnetic control valve to the steering valve according to a pressure produced by operating fluid flowing through the handle control valve when the handle is operated. The handle prioritization valve includes a switching valve and a priority control valve switchable between a handle stage and a lever stage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2016
    Assignee: KOMATSU LTD.
    Inventors: Kota Imanishi, Hiroyuki Chikugo, Shuuji Hori, Mitsumasa Akashi, Akira Hasebe, Shuki Akushichi, Nobumasa Takamatsu
  • Patent number: 9227660
    Abstract: A steering system and method are described for a vehicle having steerable wheels, with steering of the wheels controlled, at least in part, by a valve assembly. A ground speed of the vehicle may be determined. Whether a steering command is being provided to a valve assembly may also be determined. An operational pressure at the valve assembly may be determined with a pressure sensor. A threshold pressure may be determined based upon the ground speed and/or whether a steering command is currently being provided. The operational pressure may then be compared with the operational pressure, and steering control with the valve assembly disabled based upon the comparison.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventors: Thomas D. Bebernes, Charles J. Bowden, David V. Rotole, Walter C. Wright
  • Patent number: 9085319
    Abstract: A steering device for a wheel loader includes a rotatable handle, a tiltable lever, a steering cylinder, a steering valve, a pump, a handle control valve, a lever control valve, and a handle prioritization valve. The steering valve controls a supply direction of operating fluid to the steering cylinder with pilot hydraulic pressure. The pump supplies operating fluid to the steering cylinder via the steering valve. The handle and lever control valves supply pilot hydraulic pressure to control the supply direction to the steering valve according to handle rotation and lever tilt, respectively. The handle prioritization valve shuts off the pilot hydraulic pressure supplied from the lever control valve to the steering valve according to a differential pressure or an absolute pressure in a hydraulic circuit produced due to operating fluid flowing through the handle control valve when the handle is operated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2015
    Assignee: KOMATSU LTD.
    Inventors: Kota Imanishi, Hiroyuki Chikugo, Shuuji Hori, Mitsumasa Akashi, Akira Hasebe, Shuki Akushichi, Nobumasa Takamatsu
  • Patent number: 8997918
    Abstract: The invention relates to protective device for an articulated vehicle (1) comprising at least a first and second vehicle portion (4, 6); a control gear (8) connected to the respective vehicle portion (4, 6); and an actuating member (16) for, via the control gear (8), changing the relative position of the vehicle portions (4, 6) in relation to one another. The protective device (2) comprises at least one stiffening means (22), which fixes the position of each respective vehicle portion (4, 6) in relation to one another whenever the acceleration and/or speed of at least one of the vehicle portions (4, 6) exceeds a predetermined limit value. The invention also relates to a method for controlling a stiffening means of such a protective device (2) for an articulated vehicle (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: BAE Systems Hägglunds Aktiebolag
    Inventor: Björn Nordberg
  • Publication number: 20140318884
    Abstract: The invention relates to a steering axle (1) for a vehicle, wherein steering levers (31, 32) are articulated to both sides of an axle body (2) and each of the steering levers (31, 32) is operatively connected to a track arm (41, 42), and a tie rod (5) is hingedly connected at both ends at attack points (61, 62) to the track arms (41, 42). It is proposed to provide the track arms (41, 42) with an adjustment device (71, 72) for changing the position of the attack points (61, 62).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventors: Josef Scharmüller, Josef Scharmüller, JR.
  • Patent number: 8863882
    Abstract: A hydraulic steering actuator system for a forklift with front and rear sections includes a hydraulic steering motor. The forklift front section includes a mast mounting a pair of fork blades and a pair of wheels. The forklift rear section mounts a pair of drive wheels. The forklift front and rear sections are connected by an articulated connection with a vertical rotational axis. The steering actuator motor driveshaft extends along the vertical rotational axis. First and second actuator mounting brackets are connected to the forklift front and rear sections respectively. One of the mounting brackets includes upper and lower locking assemblies locking the hydraulic steering motor driveshaft whereby torque applied to the steering motor is transmitted to the articulated connection for turning the forklift front section relative to the forklift rear section. The range of motion is preferably 180°-205° for accommodating side-loading operations from relatively high storage shelves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Landoll Corporation
    Inventors: Donald R. Landoll, Mel A. Beikmann, Shannon W. Gibson
  • Patent number: 8807261
    Abstract: An articulation control system is disclosed for use with a mobile machine having a traction device. The articulation control system may have a speed sensor configured to generate a first signal indicative of a travel speed of the mobile machine, a steering angle sensor configured to generate a second signal indicative of a steering angle of the traction device, and an articulation actuator configured to articulate a front frame of the mobile machine relative to a rear frame of the mobile machine. The articulation control system may also have a controller in communication with the speed sensor, the steering angle sensor, and the articulation actuator. The controller may be configured to track a travel path of the front frame based on the first and second signals, and to regulate operation of the articulation actuator to cause the rear frame to follow the travel path of the front frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Michael C. Subrt, Yongliang Zhu, Owen C. Kolstad
  • Patent number: 8727059
    Abstract: The invention relates to a hinge assembly for connecting two vehicle parts to a vehicle that is capable of crab steering, has articulated frame steering and comprises articulating vehicle axles. Four structural elements are connected to each other by four hinge connections, the hinge centers being arranged in a common plane in a basic state, such that they form a frame which is substantially rigid with respect to thrust forces in that plane. Two of the structural elements forming opposite sides of the frame can in each case be rotated about a rotational axis located in said plane with respect to the other three structural elements. Furthermore, the hinge connections are designed in such a manner that, starting from the basic state, the two rotational axes can be articulated relative to each other in that one of the rotational axis can be pivoted out of the plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Ammann Schweiz AG
    Inventors: Christoph Anliker, Lino Giovanoli
  • Patent number: 8684125
    Abstract: An articulated steering load-carrying vehicle (1) with a front portion (2), which by a steering joint (10) is connected to a rear portion (3), and in which the front portion (2) includes a first power engine (12) and at least one forward driven wheel pair (5, 5?), and in which, the rear portion (3) includes a load receiving device (6) and at least two driven wheel pairs (7, 7?; 8, 8?). A second wheel pair (8, 8?) of the at least two driven wheel pairs (7, 7?; 8, 8?) on the rear portion a second wheel pair (8, 8?) is steeringly connected to the rear portion. A system for driving of such a load-carrying vehicle is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Atlas Copco Rock Drills AB
    Inventor: Karl-Erik Niva
  • Patent number: 8646567
    Abstract: A work vehicle comprises a front frame, a rear frame, an oscillation frame, a slew bearing, and a rolling-element bearing. The slew bearing and the rolling-element bearing allow oscillation between the oscillation frame and the rear frame about a fore-aft axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Gregory K. Werner, David F. Rindfleisch, Francois Stander, Joseph M. Montocchio, David D. Latham
  • Patent number: 8627917
    Abstract: A steering system, in a state where a first steering means is not operated, a third signal pressure output means outputs a third signal pressure in response to a second signal pressure fed to the third signal pressure output means, and feeding and discharging control means operates based in the third signal pressure, while in a state where the first steering means is operated, the third signal pressure output means stops outputting of the third signal pressure regardless of whether or not the second signal pressure is fed to the third signal pressure output means, and the feeding and discharging control means operates based on the first signal pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha KCM, Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroyasu Kodera, Shinichiro Tanaka
  • Patent number: 8534415
    Abstract: The center-pivot vehicle has forward and rearward sections with traversing means for traversing terrain. A rotary actuator connects the forward and rearward sections. Rotation of the rotary actuator articulates the forward and rearward sections relative to each other for steering the vehicle. One of the sections includes a bed operably attached to a bed frame that is operably attached to a trailer frame for actuated movement between trailing and loading positions. The bed is pivotally attached to the bed frame for moving between tilted and non-tilted positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Roose Mfg. Company
    Inventor: Gerald L. Roose
  • Patent number: 8490741
    Abstract: A straight motion assisting device for a work machine is adapted for receiving an input indicative of a steering angle from a position of a moveable member and adapted for applying a restoring force for affecting the work machine towards a straight motion when the steering angle input indicates that the work machine deviates from the straight motion. The device includes a hydraulic system adapted to be effected by the displacement of the moveable member and adapted to apply the restoring force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Volvo Construction Equipment AB
    Inventor: Hàkan Johansson
  • Patent number: 8448741
    Abstract: A vehicle is disclosed having a hydraulic system. The hydraulic system includes a steering input and a feedback to the steering input. In another aspect of the disclosure, an adjustable gain is provided between steering inputs to the system and the steering output from the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Scott J Breiner, Mark J Cherney
  • Patent number: 8430209
    Abstract: An articulated vehicle has front and rear sections that are connected via a vertically pivot, and the front section has one or more front wheels that pivot a horizontal plane. A first sprocket is mounted on a vertical axis, for movement with the front section, the axis of the first sprocket is offset from the axis of the pivot between the front and rear sections, a shaft transmit angular movement at a ratio of 1:1 and in the same direction from the front wheel or wheels to the first sprocket, and a second sprocket is mounted on the rear section of the vehicle coaxially of the axis of the pivot between the front and rear sections. The second sprocket is drivingly connected to a rotary sensor, the first and second sprockets are drivingly connected by way of a chain, and the first and second sprockets having a drive ratio of 1:1.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Translift Bendi Limited
    Inventor: Frederick Leslie Brown
  • Publication number: 20130039729
    Abstract: A hydraulic steering actuator system for a forklift with front and rear sections includes a hydraulic steering motor. The forklift front section includes a mast mounting a pair of fork blades and a pair of wheels. The forklift rear section mounts a pair of drive wheels. The forklift front and rear sections are connected by an articulated connection with a vertical rotational axis. The steering actuator motor driveshaft extends along the vertical rotational axis. First and second actuator mounting brackets are connected to the forklift front and rear sections respectively. One of the mounting brackets includes upper and lower locking assemblies locking the hydraulic steering motor driveshaft whereby torque applied to the steering motor is transmitted to the articulated connection for turning the forklift front section relative to the forklift rear section. The range of motion is preferably 180°-205° for accommodating side-loading operations from relatively high storage shelves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2012
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Inventors: Donald R. Landoll, Mel A. Beikmann, Shannon W. Gibson
  • Patent number: 8276704
    Abstract: A hydraulic steering actuator system for a forklift with front and rear sections includes a hydraulic steering motor. The forklift front section includes a mast mounting a pair of fork blades and a pair of wheels. The forklift rear section mounts a pair of drive wheels. The forklift front and rear sections are connected by an articulated connection with a vertical rotational axis. The steering actuator motor driveshaft extends generally along the vertical rotational axis. First and second actuator mounting brackets are connected to the forklift front and rear sections respectively. One of the mounting brackets includes upper and lower locking assemblies locking the hydraulic steering motor driveshaft whereby torque applied to the steering motor is transmitted to the articulated connection for turning the forklift front section relative to the forklift rear section. The range of motion is preferably 180°-205° for accommodating side-loading operations from relatively high storage shelves, e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Landoll Corporation
    Inventors: Donald R. Landoll, Mel A. Beikmann, Shannon W. Gibson
  • Patent number: 8240418
    Abstract: A pivot-steered vehicle, in particular a pivot-steered construction vehicle or machine, is provided. The vehicle includes a front frame and a rear frame which are connected to each other via a pivot steering gear and a steering drive. The pivot steering gear has a first and a second vertical pivot axis which are arranged opposing each other with respect to a longitudinal axis of the vehicle in a neutral position, the pivot steering gear being embodied in a first steering range for relative swiveling of the front frame and the rear frame about the first pivot axis and in a second steering range for relative swiveling of the front frame and the rear frame about the second pivot axis, the first and the second steering ranges being separated from each other via the neutral position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Bomag GmbH
    Inventor: Joachim Ponstein
  • Publication number: 20120138380
    Abstract: A hydraulic steering actuator system for a forklift with front and rear sections includes a hydraulic steering motor. The forklift front section includes a mast mounting a pair of fork blades and a pair of wheels. The forklift rear section mounts a pair of drive wheels. The forklift front and rear sections are connected by an articulated connection with a vertical rotational axis. The steering actuator motor driveshaft extends generally along the vertical rotational axis. First and second actuator mounting brackets are connected to the forklift front and rear sections respectively. One of the mounting brackets includes upper and lower locking assemblies locking the hydraulic steering motor driveshaft whereby torque applied to the steering motor is transmitted to the articulated connection for turning the forklift front section relative to the forklift rear section. The range of motion is preferably 180°-205° for accommodating sideloading operations from relatively high storage shelves, e.g.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2010
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Inventors: DONALD R. LANDOLL, MEL A. BEIKMANN, SHANNON W. GIBSON
  • Publication number: 20120118661
    Abstract: A steering system, in a state where a first steering means is not operated, a third signal pressure output means outputs a third signal pressure in response to a second signal pressure fed to the third signal pressure output means, and feeding and discharging control means operates based in the third signal pressure, while in a state where the first steering means is operated, the third signal pressure output means stops outputting of the third signal pressure regardless of whether or not the second signal pressure is fed to the third signal pressure output means, and the feeding and discharging control means operates based on the first signal pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Applicants: HITACHI CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY CO., LTD., KABUSHIKI KAISHA KCM
    Inventors: Hiroyasu Kodera, Shinichiro Tanaka
  • Patent number: 8087489
    Abstract: An articulated construction vehicle is provided with an articulated, self-propelled body, body-articulating hydraulic cylinders for articulating the self-propelled body, a pilot-operated directional control valve for controlling a flow of pressure oil to the body-articulating hydraulic cylinders, and a steering-wheel-operated control device for outputting a pilot signal to corresponding one of signal-receiving ports of a directional control valve by rotational operation of a steering wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshio Tanaka, Tsuyoshi Nakamura
  • Patent number: 8006796
    Abstract: A personal vehicle has a fore section and an aft section. The fore and aft sections each have a frame, a transaxle mounted to the frame, and a wheels attached to the transaxle. The wheels of the aft section are vertically articulated relative to the frame of the aft section. A seat is disposed on the frame of the fore section. A joystick and interface are mounted to the fore section. A motor is mounted to the frame of the aft section. A hydraulic system is operatively connected to the motor. A shaft is operatively connected to the motor. A fender assembly is mounted to the fore and aft sections. A rollover structure is mounted to the fore and aft sections. The hydraulic systems controls the directional movement of the personal vehicle and includes a hydraulic pump, rotovalves, a null valve, a drive cylinder, and a steering cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: Roger F. Fontaine
  • Patent number: 8002074
    Abstract: The center-pivot vehicle has forward and rearward sections with traversing means for traversing terrain. A rotary actuator connects the forward and rearward sections. Rotation of the rotary actuator articulates the forward and rearward sections relative to each other for steering the vehicle. The present invention also includes a method for controlling articulation of a center-pivot vehicle which includes connecting first and second sections of the center-pivot vehicle together with a rotary actuator, powering the rotary actuator with an engine and providing a steering input by an operator for operating the rotary actuator for rotating the rotary actuator and articulating the first and second sections of the vehicle relative to each other for turning the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Roose Mfg. Company
    Inventor: Gerald L. Roose
  • Patent number: 7949447
    Abstract: A steering system and method are capable of steering a plurality of vehicles arranged in a train with adjacent vehicles pivotally connected to each other for movement about a vertical axis. Each vehicle has a pair of steerable wheels with one pair at one end of the train being a selected leading pair having its steering angle determined by an operator. An electrical control system automatically steers all of the wheels trailing behind the leading pair. Vehicle angle sensors measure intercar angles between adjacent vehicles and provide this information to the control system. An indicator provides the controller with the current distance traveled by the train. Wheel angle sensors provide signals indicative of the current steering angle for each wheel pair. The controller adjusts the actual steering angle for each trailing pair to a desired angle by calculating adjustments based on the measurement inputs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Prairie Machine & Parts Mfg. (1978) Ltd.
    Inventors: Maurice DeMong, Ashley Debnam
  • Patent number: 7896125
    Abstract: A hydraulic steering device for vehicles, especially construction machines, with which is simple and robust mechanically and can be precisely controlled, without possessing the disadvantages of the current state of the art. A hydraulic swivelling motor for producing the steering motion, which is connected to a variable flow rate pump with reversal of its direction of delivery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: CNH Baumaschinen GmbH
    Inventors: Monika Ivantysynova, Jürgen Weber, Jörg Grabbel
  • Patent number: 7891458
    Abstract: A priority valve 7 is disposed between a hydraulic pump 2 and a steering valve 4 and is used to supply priority steering cylinders 103a and 103b with pressurized oil discharged from the hydraulic pump 2 by controlling the differential pressure across a meter-in hydraulic line of the steering valve 4 such that the differential pressure is kept at a target value. A pressure sensor 31 for detecting the load pressures of the steering cylinders 103a and 103b is provided. On the basis of the detected load pressures, the target value set for the priority valve 7 is modified by devices including a controller 32, a solenoid valve 33, a pilot hydraulic line 29, and a pressure receiving unit 24c of the priority valve 7. The above configuration enables suppression of a shock occurring at the start of turning of the steering wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazunori Nakamura, Tsuyoshi Nakamura, Kouji Ishikawa, Hiroyuki Azuma, Kentarou Itoga
  • Patent number: 7849956
    Abstract: A method of steering a vehicle with a hydraulic steering system is disclosed. A first control signal is sent to a pilot valve. The pilot valve is operated to direct pilot fluid to a main valve in response to the first control signal. The main valve is opened to a first position in response to the pilot fluid. Fluid is directed through the main valve to a first actuator. Resistance to actuation of the first actuator is detected. The detected resistance is compared to a threshold resistance. A second control signal is sent to the pilot valve when the detected resistance exceeds the threshold resistance. The pilot valve is operated to direct pilot fluid to the main valve in response to the second control signal. The main valve is opened to a second position in response to the pilot fluid. Fluid is directed through the main valve to the first actuator and a second actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc
    Inventors: Rabie E. Khalil, Xiaodong Huang, Michael J. Mientus, John James Krone
  • Patent number: 7798262
    Abstract: A vehicle has at least three drive axles each with a pair of drive wheels, a steering system that directly controls the steering angle between at least two of the drive axles. The vehicle is arranged so that all drive wheels on its right hand side and left hand side, respectively, essentially follow the same wheel tracks when it is driven. The frequency of rotation is individually controllable for each drive wheel. The vehicle includes differential compensating elements arranged to register the relative steering angle for each consecutive pair of drive axles, respectively, and the mutual frequency of rotation for the drive wheels of each drive axle is controlled by the registered relative steering angle associated with the axle. A drive axle arrangement for such a vehicle is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: El-Forest AB
    Inventor: Lennart Lundström
  • Patent number: 7743869
    Abstract: A mine transport vehicle is disclosed having two main bodies, one a power and control section and the other a payload section, the two sections being connected by an articulating joint. The power and control section has seating for an operator and a passenger. The payload section has seating for four passengers as well as capacity for at least approximately 2000 pounds of equipment. The weight distribution of each section is such that the stress on the frame and articulating joint is minimized thus providing improved life of the joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Listerhill Total Maintenance Center LLC
    Inventors: Donald B. Flournoy, Jr., Floyd T. Patterson, Michael J. Stumpe, John F. Bryerton, Hilard R. Cantrell, Jr., Timothy A. Ellett
  • Patent number: 7721842
    Abstract: A steering system is provided for a work vehicle comprising articulated first and second vehicle sections. The steering system comprises a controller adapted to: determine from a speed-request signal if a requested steering speed requested for the first vehicle section relative to the second vehicle section about an articulation axis toward an end of an end region of a position range of the first vehicle section is at least a predetermined steering speed; determine from a position signal if the first vehicle section is positioned in the end region of the position range; and, if the requested steering speed is at least the predetermined steering speed and the first vehicle section is positioned in the end region, signal that an actual steering speed of the first vehicle section be lower than the requested steering speed. An associated method is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Alvaro Jose Forero
  • Patent number: 7694772
    Abstract: This invention of a “FORWARD CAB ARTICULATED TRACTOR” comprises a front cab section and an articulating joint attached to the rear of the front cab section and a rear section attached to the rear of the articulated joint with the front of the rear section attached to the rear section of the articulated joint and a gas driven internal combustion engine mounted in the rear section of the forward cab articulated tractor, and the gas driven engine connected to drive a hydraulic fluid pump to provide hydraulic fluid to a manifold and the manifold to supply hydraulic fluid to lines connected to disc brakes and to steer the forward cab articulated tractor by activating hydraulic fluid from the manifold to cylinders attached to the articulated joint and to the rear of front cab section. The front wheels are provided with brakes activated by hydraulic fluid from the manifold and the brakes are further activated by a spring loaded cylinder which is activated by shut off of hydraulic fluid from the manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: M-B Companies Inc.
    Inventor: Robert A. Doll
  • Patent number: 7686320
    Abstract: A steering system for a tractor and trailer includes first and second sender cylinders which are turned 180° with respect to each other, and first and second receiver cylinders which are turned 180° with respect to each other. First and second front link members connect the first and second sender cylinders to a front equalizer arm, and first and second rear link members connect the first and second receiver cylinders to a rear equalizer arm. The pistons of the cylinders travel in straight paths experiencing no side loads, and each piston travels the same distance as the tractor turns with respect to the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Inventors: James R. McGhie, Robb I. McGhie
  • Publication number: 20090276122
    Abstract: A steering system and method are capable of steering a plurality of vehicles arranged in a train with adjacent vehicles pivotally connected to each other for movement about a vertical axis. Each vehicle has a pair of steerable wheels with one pair at one end of the train being a selected leading pair having its steering angle determined by an operator. An electrical control system automatically steers all of the wheels trailing behind the leading pair. Vehicle angle sensors measure intercar angles between adjacent vehicles and provide this information to the control system. An indicator provides the controller with the current distance traveled by the train. Wheel angle sensors provide signals indicative of the current steering angle for each wheel pair. The controller adjusts the actual steering angle for each trailing pair to a desired angle by calculating adjustments based on the measurement inputs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2009
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Applicant: Prairie Machine & Parts Mfg.(1978) Ltd.
    Inventors: Maurice Demong, Ashley Debnam
  • Patent number: 7610989
    Abstract: System for controlling at least one hydraulic cylinder (2, 3) having a first control valve unit (4) connected to the hydraulic cylinder for regulation thereof. A first operable control means (5) is included and which is adapted for controlling the first control valve unit. A second control valve unit (6) is also included that is connected to the hydraulic cylinder for regulation thereof, and a second operable control means (7) is further provided and which is adapted for controlling the second control valve unit. The system also includes means (23) for prioritizing the first control means. The prioritizing means (23) is controlled via hydraulics in such a way that the effect of the second control means (6) on the regulation of the hydraulic cylinder (2, 3) is at least substantially reduced as soon as the first control means (5) is operated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Volvo Construction Equipment AB
    Inventors: Bo Vigholm, Lennart Strandberg
  • Patent number: 7597168
    Abstract: A hydraulic system for a work vehicle including a manifold assembly configured to prioritize hydraulic fluid flow to priority functions over a wide range of engine speeds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Eric R. Anderson, Benjamin Nedved, Jarko Malinen, Daniel L. Pflieger
  • Patent number: 7434653
    Abstract: A hydraulic steering system for a work machine may include a first steering actuator having a first and a second chamber. In addition, the steering system may include a second steering actuator having a third and a fourth chamber. A multi-position directional valve may include at least one low power position and at least one high power position. The low power position may be configured to direct fluid only to the first chamber during a low power turn to extend the first steering actuator. The high power position may be configured to direct fluid to the first chamber and the third chamber during a high power turn to retract the second steering actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Rabie E. Khalil, Xiaodong Huang, Michael J. Mientus, John James Krone
  • Publication number: 20080210485
    Abstract: A control system (201) for a frame-steered vehicle that includes a first steering cylinder (104) and a second steering cylinder (105). The steering cylinders are arranged for frame-steering of the vehicle. The system includes a first drive unit (202) and a second drive unit (204), each of which has an electrical machine (206,208) and a hydraulic machine (210,212). Each respective electrical machine is drivingly connected to its associated hydraulic machine, wherein with a first (210) of the two hydraulic machines is arranged for flow-communication with a piston side (214) of the first steering cylinder (104) and a piston rod side (216) of the second steering cylinder (105). A second (212) of the two hydraulic machines is arranged for flow-communication with a piston side (218) of the second steering cylinder and a piston rod side (220) of the first steering cylinder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2007
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Applicant: VOLVO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT AB
    Inventors: Bo VIGHOLM, Markku PALO